Samsung Galaxy A51 is one of the most popular mid-class smartphones, but even it begins to slow down over time due to a full cache. If your phone is running slower, apps are closing suddenly, and memory is running out for no apparent reason, the problem most likely lies in the accumulated temporary files. The cache speeds up the loading of frequently used data, but its excess leads to the opposite effect: the system wastes resources on processing unnecessary “garbage”.

In this article you will find 5 working ways to clear the cache on Galaxy A51 (including hidden system files), and you will also learn how to automate the process so as not to return to it every month. We'll figure out when to clear the cache selectively (for individual applications), and when to global (for the entire system), and why you don't always need to delete all temporary files in a row. The instructions are relevant for firmware One UI 2.0–4.1 (Android 10–12).

What is the cache and why it needs to be cleared on the Samsung Galaxy A51

Cache (from English cache —“cache”) are temporary files that applications and the system create to speed up their work. For example, when you first open Instagramit loads profile photos, feeds, and stories into the cache. The next time you start, this data is loaded not from the Internet, but from the phone’s memory - this saves traffic and time.

However, over time, the cache grows to gigantic proportions. On Galaxy A51 with 128 GB of memory, users often encounter the fact that “garbage” takes up 5–15 GB —and this does not take into account media files! A full cache leads to:

  • 🐢 Slowdown of the phone (lags when opening applications, interface freezing).
  • 🔄 Spontaneous reboots or crashes from apps.
  • 📱 Overheating devices (the processor wastes resources on processing unnecessary data).
  • 🚫 Errors like “Insufficient memory”, even if there is free space.

But there is a nuance: not the entire cache can be deleted without consequences. For example, clearing the cache Google Play Services can lead to malfunctions of Google services, and deleting temporary messenger files (for example WhatsApp) can lead to the loss of downloaded stickers or media. Therefore, it is important to understand which files are safe to clearand which ones are better to leave.

📊 How often do you clear the cache on your smartphone?
Once a week
Once a month
Only when the phone starts to slow down
Never cleared

Method 1: Clearing the cache for individual applications

If problems arise with a specific application (for example, YouTube constantly gives an error or Chrome slows down), it is enough to clear the cache only for it. This is the safest method, as it does not affect system files.

Instructions:

  1. Open Settings → Applications.
  2. Click on the three dots in the upper right corner and select Sort by size (this makes it easier to find "gluttonous" apps).
  3. Select the desired application (for example, Facebook or TikTok).
  4. Go to section Memory (or Storage).
  5. Click Clear cache (do not confuse with the button Clear data —it will delete all settings and accounts!).

Which applications should you clean first? Usually the cache that accumulates the most is:

  • 📷 Social networks: Instagram, Facebook, VK.
  • 🎮 Games: PUBG Mobile, Genshin Impact, Call of Duty.
  • 🌍 Browsers: Chrome, Samsung Internet, Opera.
  • 📺 Media players: YouTube, Netflix, Twitch.

Close the application in the multitasking menu

Check whether it is being used for background tasks (for example, downloading files)

Make sure you have stable Internet connection (after cleaning, the data will be downloaded again)

Make a backup copy of important data (for example, saves in games)-->

On Galaxy A51 the cache of some system applications (for example, com.sec.android.app.launcher) can weigh up to 1 GB, but deleting it without a reason is not recommended - this will cause the launcher to crash.

Method 2: Global clearing of the cache via Recovery Mode

If the phone is very slow and individual applications have already been cleared, it will help complete clearing of the partition cache (the so-called wipe cache partitionThis method removes all temporary system files, including update cache, kernel and services. On Galaxy A51 the procedure takes 2-5 minutes and does not affect personal data (photos, contacts, messages).

How to start Recovery Mode:

  1. Turn off the phone.
  2. Press the buttons simultaneously Volume up + Power and hold them for 10-15 seconds until the logo appears Samsung.
  3. Release the buttons when you see a blue screen with the message Installing system update (this is normal, the update is not installed).
  4. After 30 seconds you will be taken to the menu RecoveryUse the volume buttons to navigate and the Power button. selection.
  5. Select Wipe cache partition → Yes.
  6. After completion, click Reboot system now.

When should this be done?

  • 🔄 After major updates Android (to avoid conflicts old and new files).
  • 🐌 If the phone has become unbearably slow, and other methods did not help.
  • 📱 With frequent overheating or spontaneous reboots.
⚠️ Attention: Do not confuse Wipe cache partition s Wipe data/factory reset! The second option will erase all your data and return the phone to factory settings.
What happens if you interrupt the cleaning in Recovery?

If you force the phone to reboot during the procedure (for example, by removing the battery or holding down the power button), the system may damage cache files. In most cases, this leads to a cyclic reboot (bootloop). The problem can only be corrected by resetting or flashing.

Method 3: Automatic cleaning using Device Care

Samsung built into Galaxy A51 utility Device Care (previously Optimization), which automatically analyzes the system and suggests optimizing its operation. Unlike manual methods, this method less aggressive -it deletes only truly unnecessary files without affecting critical data.

How to use Device Care:

  1. Open Settings → Device maintenance (or Care device in new versions One UI).
  2. Press Optimize now —the system will scan the phone for junk.
  3. Go to section Memory and press Clear (the utility will show how much space can be freed up).
  4. For deep cleaning, tap Advanced → Cleaning garbage.

Pros of the method:

  • ⚡ Fast (takes 1-2 minutes).
  • 🛡️ Safe (does not delete important files).
  • 🔄 You can set up automatic cleaning (turn on option Auto-optimization).

Cons: the utility does not clear the cache of some system applications (for example, Samsung Knox or Bixby), so for complete cleaning you will have to combine this method with manual methods.

Clearing method Speed Security Efficiency Suitable for
Manual cache clearing applications Average ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐⭐⭐ Eliminating lags in specific apps
Wipe cache partition Fast ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Global system failures
Device Care Instantly ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ⭐⭐ Regular care
Third-party cleaners (CCleaner, Files by Google) Fast ⭐⭐ ⭐⭐⭐ Deep cleaning (with risk)

Method 4: Clearing the cache through third-party applications

There are hundreds of utilities for clearing the cache, but not all of them are equally useful. Many “optimizers” only imitate the work, showing inflated figures of freed memory. We tested several popular applications on Google Play There are hundreds of cache cleaning utilities, but not all of them are equally useful. Many “optimizers” only imitate the work, showing inflated figures of freed memory. We tested several popular applications on Galaxy A51 and chose those that really work:

Top 3 proven cleaners:

  1. Files by Google (from Google LLC):
    • 🔍 Finds not only the cache, but also duplicate files, old APKs, empty folders.
    • 🛡️ Does not delete system files (unlike dubious Chinese utilities).
    • 📊 Shows which applications take up the most space.
  2. CCleaner (from Piriform):
    • 🧹 Can clear the cache Dalvik (temporary files of the virtual machine Android).
    • 📉 Can disable autoloading of unnecessary applications.
    • ⚠️ The free version has limited functionality (advertising).
  • SD Maid (from darken):
    • 🔧 An advanced tool for experienced users (cleanses databases, remnants of deleted apps).
    • 📊 Shows detailed statistics for each file.
    • 💰 Paid (there is a trial period).

      • How to use Files by Google:

      1. Install the application from Play Market.
      2. Open it and go to the Cleaning tab.
      3. Click Release place —the utility will scan the phone.
      4. Select category Application cache and confirm deletion.
      ⚠️ Attention: Some "optimizers" (for example, Clean Master or DU Speed Booster) may delete important files or show false notifications about viruses. On Galaxy A51 such apps often cause crashes, so use only proven utilities from the list above.
      💡

      Before using third-party cleaners, check their reputation on forums (for example 4PDA or XDA-Developers) Many “miracle utilities” actually just show ads and sell your data.

      Method 5: Clearing the Dalvik and ART cache (for advanced users)

      Cache Dalvik (or ART in new versions Android) are temporary files that the virtual machine creates to speed up the execution of applications. They can occupy Galaxy A51 they can borrow up to 2-3 GB, but deleting them manually is not recommended - this may lead to crashes. However, if the phone extremely unstable (constant errors like "The application has stopped"), cleaning will help.

      How to clear the Dalvik/ART cache:

      1. Turn off the phone.
      2. Press Volume up + Powerto enter Recovery Mode (as in Method 2).
      3. Select Advanced → Wipe Dalvik Cache.
      4. Confirm the action and reboot the phone.

    What happens after cleaning?

    • 🔄 At the first start after cleaning, applications will open more slowly (the system rebuilds the cache).
    • 📱 There may be isolated failures in the operation of apps (usually corrected after a reboot).
    • ⚡ 1–3 GB of memory will be freed.

    On Galaxy A51 s One UI 3.1+ (Android 11/12) cache ART is cleared automatically when the system is updated, so this should be done manually only in extreme cases.

    What NOT to do when clearing the cache on Samsung Galaxy A51

    Many “tips” from the Internet not only do not help, but also harm the phone. Here's what is strictly not recommended. data-i="252">(for example, through do Galaxy A51:

    • 🚫 Clear the cache of all applications in a row (for example, via Settings → Storage → Cached data). This will delete temporary files even for apps that are actively used and will slow them down.
    • 🚫 Delete system application cache type Samsung Pay, Knox or Secure Folder - this can break the functionality of the phone.
    • 🚫 Use “miracle utilities” like Phone Cleaner or Super Cleaner, which promise to “speed up your phone by 300%”. They often contain malicious code.
    • 🚫 Clear the cache too much. often This will force applications to constantly rebuild temporary files, which will only increase the load on the processor.

    Also do not believe the myths:

    • ❌ “Clearing the cache will free up 50 GB of memory” - on Galaxy A51 1–5 GB is actually freed (depending on use).
    • ❌ “The cache needs to be cleared once a week” - it is enough to do this once every 1-2 months or when lags appear.
    • ❌ “Clearing the cache removes viruses” - the cache and viruses are not connected in any way. For security, use Google Play Protect.
    💡

    Clearing the cache is not a panacea If the phone is slow due to a weak processor (Exynos 9611 V Galaxy A51 not the most powerful), no optimization can replace upgrading the hardware or resetting to factory settings.

    FAQ: Frequently asked questions about clearing the cache on the Samsung Galaxy A51

    ❓ Clearing the cache will delete my photos, videos or messages?

    No, the cache is temporary application files, and your personal data (photos, chats, contacts) is stored in another memory section. However, if you clear data applications (not the cache!), then some settings or saves may be reset, for example, downloaded stickers will be lost in WhatsApp the stickers themselves. messages will remain.

    ❓ Why do applications take longer to load after clearing the cache?

    This is normal: applications have to reload temporary files (images, scripts, authorization data). After 1-2 launches, the speed will be restored. If lags remain, check your Internet connection or reinstall the problematic one. application.

    ❓ Is it possible to clear the cache for all applications at once?

    Yes, but it is not recommended. There is a button for mass clearing, but it will delete the cache of Settings → Storage → Cached data there is a button for mass clearing, but it will delete the cache all apps, including those that you actively use. (see Method 1).

    ❓ Why does the cache appear again after a day?

    This is normal process: applications constantly create new temporary files. If the cache grows too quickly (for example, Facebook accumulates 1 GB per day), check the application settings - it may cache video in high quality. Instagram or YouTube you can limit caching in the settings.

    ❓ Will clearing the cache help if the phone is overheating?

    Overheating is often caused by the processor wasting resources on processing unnecessary files. After clearing the cache, the load will decrease, but if the problem persists, check:

    • 🔋 Battery condition (more than 80% wear results). overheating).
    • 🎮 Games or heavy applications running in the background.
    • 🌡️ Ambient temperature (do not use the phone in direct sunlight).